Year of the Fire Horse: Who thrives, who should slow down?

THE Year of the Fire Horse is shaping up to be fast, fiery and full of sudden turns and not everyone will experience it the same way.

Mastery Academy of Chinese Metaphysics founder Datuk Joey Yap said the year carries high-speed energy that rewards those who prepare early, stay alert and adapt quickly, while others may need to pause, reflect and manage change carefully.

Instead of predicting fate, Yap emphasised positioning, awareness and personal readiness in navigating the year ahead.

"Those who prepare now for a high-speed ride with plenty of changes of direction on the way towards new horizons - they will benefit.

"As with riding a horse, the faster you ride, the more comfortable it gets, provided you can see clearly what’s ahead and not get bucked," he told Sinar Daily.

He explained that every person carries four animal signs, based on year, month, day and hour of birth but certain signs will feel the Fire Horse influence more strongly.

Here’s who should move forward boldly and who may want to tread more carefully:

1. Tigers: Time to cool down and reflect

For Tigers, the Fire Horse year is less about charging ahead and more about stepping back.

Yap said Tigers benefit from slowing the pace, taking time off and investing in learning rather than forcing progress.

"Tigers benefit from a dip in cool waters and benefit from a sabbatical this year. What they learn might yield personal or professional advancement," he said.

2.Rats: Prepare for change from all directions

Rats can expect unpredictability in the Year of the Fire Horse, with shifts happening unexpectedly across work, relationships and daily routines.

"Rats will have to accept the many changes that come from above, below, sideways or just sneak up on them; to cultivate patience and restfulness," he said.

3.Roosters: Learn to accept what already works

Roosters are encouraged to observe rather than over-correct.

While some signs chase progress, Roosters benefit from recognising what is already stable and functioning well.

"Roosters also need to be accepting, but in a different way, that things can be perfect the way they are. Observation benefits awareness," he said.

4. Rabbits: Step out and build connections

For Rabbits, the Fire Horse year offers strong social and networking momentum.

"Rabbits will want to step out and network. Besides being Peach Blossom Stars themselves, this year, they have an extra one. Just remember to set healthy boundaries," he said.

5. Horses: All eyes are on you

As the namesake of the year, Horses are pushed into the spotlight whether they like it or not.

"Horses have no choice but to be out there. All the world’s a stage. Step up to the mic," he said.

Beyond individual signs, Yap said the Year of the Fire Horse symbolises speed, movement and bold transformation.

However, momentum only works if paired with awareness.

He advised individuals to focus on preparation, clarity and emotional stability rather than impulsive action.

The Year of the Fire Horse rewards readiness, adaptability and courage but also reminds certain signs to pause, observe and reset.